Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 115400ST.OO.1220ST.04 Grey Dial Released in 1972 and designed by Gerald Genta, watchmaking's most famous designer, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak was the first stainless steel luxury sports watch ever to exist. Released as a tactic to survive the quartz crisis, the Royal Oak can single-handedly be thanked for AP's existence today due to its astounding success, albeit it wasn't an overnight hit. Its sizeable tonneau-shaped case, signature integrated bracelet, octagonal bezel, exposed screws, and steel construction failed to win over collectors until a few years later. Today, the Royal Oak is one of the most highly-coveted timepieces in all horology as its previously dismissed design details have permeated across the industry and into watches like the Patek Philippe Nautilus, Vacheron Constantin Overseas, Rolex Oysterquartz, amongst many other legendary timepieces.
THE DIAL Perhaps one of the Royal Oak's best know features is the “Grande Tapisserie” pattern on its dial, of which this ref. 15400ST boasts in a stunning grey color that gives the timepiece a stunning monochromatic aesthetic.
THE CONSTRUCTION While its original 39mm ref. 5402 was nicknamed the "Jumbo" back in 1972; the ref. 15400ST would certainly be deserving of that nickname with its even larger 41mm case.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
